Thekua Recipe: is a traditional sweet delicacy from Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, especially prepared during the sacred festival of Chhath Puja. This crispy, sweet treat is not only delicious but also long-lasting, making it a perfect festive offering (prasad) and snack.
Thekua is deep-fried in ghee or oil and made with whole wheat flour, jaggery (gur), coconut, and cardamom — ingredients that lend it a rich aroma and authentic traditional flavor.
Ingredients for Thekua
- Whole Wheat Flour – 2 cups
- Jaggery (Gur) – 1 cup (grated or chopped)
- Dry Coconut (grated) – 2 tablespoons
- Fennel Seeds (Saunf) – 1 teaspoon
- Cardamom Powder – ½ teaspoon
- Ghee – 2 tablespoons (for moyan)
- Water – as required
- Oil or Ghee – for deep frying
Step-by-Step Method to Make Thekua
1. Prepare the Jaggery Syrup
Heat ½ cup of water in a pan and add grated jaggery to it. Stir until the jaggery completely melts. Once done, let the syrup cool down to room temperature.
2. Knead the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, add whole wheat flour, fennel seeds, cardamom powder, grated coconut, and ghee. Mix everything well.
Now, slowly pour the jaggery syrup and knead a firm dough (slightly stiffer than roti dough).
3. Shape the Thekua
Make small dough balls and flatten them using your hands or a traditional Thekua mold to create beautiful designs.
4. Deep Fry
Heat oil or ghee in a kadhai (deep pan). Fry the Thekuas on low to medium flame until they turn golden brown and crisp.
5. Cool and Store
Remove the fried Thekuas on tissue paper to absorb extra oil. Once they cool completely, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for several days without refrigeration.
Special Tips for Perfect Thekua
- Do not knead a soft dough; a stiff dough makes the Thekua crispier.
- You can use sugar instead of jaggery, but jaggery gives a traditional and richer flavor.
- Always fry on a medium flame so that the Thekua cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
- Add dry fruits, raisins, or sesame seeds for extra flavor and nutrition.
Health Benefits of Thekua
- Instant Energy: Made with whole wheat and jaggery, Thekua is rich in carbohydrates and provides instant energy.
- Nutritious Snack: Coconut and cardamom add natural flavor and nutrients.
- Natural Sweetness: Jaggery is a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
- Long Shelf Life: Thekua stays good for many days without refrigeration.
- Sacred Offering: It is considered a holy prasad during Chhath Puja and symbolizes purity and devotion.
Conclusion
Thekua is more than just a sweet — it’s a symbol of devotion, tradition, and togetherness. Whether you make it for Chhath Puja or simply to enjoy a crunchy, sweet snack, its authentic flavor and long shelf life make it a must-try festive delicacy from Bihar and Jharkhand.
